When I scratch my arm for example, after few hours that area is red. Next day scabs form exactly where I scratched. - #29522
When I scratch my arm for example, after few hours that area is red. Next day scabs form exactly where I scratched. Large lines that look like I have been scratched by long nails but not so. I think it is called dermatographia.
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Dermatographia, indeed, seems to be what you are describing. It’s a condition where skin becomes welts or gets raised after scratching or pressure. From an Ayurvedic perspective, this might indicate an imbalance in the Vata and Pitta doshas, which govern skin health and irritability. The manifestation of redness and itching correlates with increased Pitta, whereas the dryness and the scabbing align more with Vata.
To address this imbalanace, focus on cooling and soothing strategies. Incorporate foods and habits that pacify both Vata and Pitta. Start by including more sweet, bitter, and astringent foods in your diet, which help cool down excess heat in the body. Opt for juicy fruits like pears, melons, and cucumbers, and avoid spicy, sour, and salty foods that can aggravate Pitta. Also, incorporate healthy fats like ghee and olive oil to nourish the skin and counteract dryness, a common Vata symptom.
Externally, applying coconut oil or aloe vera gel can provide a soothing, cooling effect and support skin healing. Both are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and can help with irritation. A gentle self-oil massage - known in Ayurveda as Abhyanga - using these oils may further nourish your skin and calm your doshas. Massage yourself weekly, ideally before bathing, allows the oils to absorb efficieciently and balance your system.
For a more therapeutic approach, drinking herbal teas with ingredients like chamomile or licorice can be beneficial. They have properties that calm the Pitta dosha and reduce inflammation. Maintaining a regular sleep schedule and minimizing stress through meditation or yoga can also have a favorable impact on your condition.
However, if symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider. Dermatographia generally isn’t serious but monitoring changes is essential. Always ensure any new diet or regimen suits your unique constitution and lifestyle.
It appears you may be experiencing dermatographia, which is a type of urticaria where the skin becomes raised and inflamed when scratched. In the Siddha-Ayurvedic perspective, this condition might be related to an imbalance in the pitta dosha, as the symptoms suggest excessive heat and sensitivity in the skin. Addressing this requires cooling the pitta and supporting your skin health.
First, consider including cooling foods in your diet. This means focusing on sweet, bitter, and astringent tastes. Vegetables like cucumber, lettuce, and broccoli, as well as fruits like watermelon and pears, can be helpful. Avoid spicy, fried, and excessively sour or salty foods which can aggravate pitta.
Hydration is crucial. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep the body cool and promote proper elimination. Herbal teas such as chamomile or mint can also support calming pitta and reducing symptoms.
Topically, you can apply coconut oil or aloe vera gel to the affected area to soothe inflammation and support healing. Just make sure the area is clean before application.
Managing stress through daily practices like meditation and yoga can help balance pitta by calming the mind. In addition, some Ayurvedic herbs, like guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia), have anti-inflammatory properties and may assist in managing such skin conditions when used under the supervision of an Ayurvedic practitioner.
If symptoms persist or worsen, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to rule out other underlying conditions and for a more personalized assessment. It’s very important to avoid scratching the area to prevent further irritation and potential infections.

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